More than 700 Newark children received backpacks filled with school supplies at the North Ward’s Second Annual Back-to-School night organized by the Anibal Ramos Jr. Civic Association.

“I am proud that we were able to give so many children in Newark backpacks,” said Councilman Anibal Ramos Jr. “I want to thank all those who donated to ARJ Civic in the last year to help make events like this possible."

The Anibal Ramos Jr. Civic Association awarded 13 scholarships worth $11,000 to high school and college students from Newark during its Second Annual Scholarships Award Breakfast.

"The students that received these awards have distinguished themselves both inside and outside of the classroom," said Norma Ramos, the chair of ARJ Civic. "These young men and women are proof positive that hard work pays off and they are reaping the rewards of their industrious spirits. They truly are remarkable young people."

The Anibal Ramos Jr. Civic Association awards scholarships every year to deserving Newark students attending both high school and college.

In order to qualify, you must be must be a resident of Newark, enrolled in a 2- or 4-year undergraduate program or a parochial/private high school for the upcoming fall semester and demonstrate a need for financial assistance.

The Anibal Ramos Jr. Civic Association honored nine leaders in Newark at its First Annual Leadership Awards Breakfast that raised funds for scholarship and other civic activities.

"All of the honrees deserve special recognition because they have made a positive contribution in the City of Newark," said Councilman Anibal Ramos Jr., who founded the organization. "We are blessed that these individuals have stepped up, investing their time, money and in some cases, their lives in our city."